What Is The Best Lego Game? (That Can Be Played On Modern Consoles?)


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Ah, LEGO games – the ultimate wholesome pastime for kids and adults who refuse to grow up (you know who you are). These games are like potato chips, you can’t have just one!

So let’s take a deep dive into this ocean of colorful bricks and see what we find. In this helpful article, we’ll cover the cream of the crop in LEGO gaming for modern consoles, all while using Metacritic scores as our trusty compass.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Can you really trust Metacritic scores?” Well, much like the old saying goes, “Opinions are like belly buttons, everyone’s got one.”

But hey, it’s a starting point, and we promise not to let any pesky scores sway our enthusiastic exploration of the best LEGO games out there.

So, buckle up, buttercup! It’s time to embark on an enlightening journey through the magical world of LEGO games.

LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy

So, this game is the bee’s knees, as they say. It’s based on the OG Star Wars trilogy (that’s the original for those not hip with the lingo) and was released on Xbox, Xbox 360, PS2, and Gamecube.

It takes two top-notch LEGO video games and smooshes them into one fantastic package that’s as satisfying as a PB&J sandwich (heavy on the jelly, please).

Based on the original Star Wars trilogy

Allow me to geek out a bit here – this game is based on the timeless Episodes IV, V, and VI. Yup, you read that right. No Jar Jar Binks here, folks.

In fact, the game is so good at retelling the original story that it leaves the prequels in the dust. And it does all of this without even using dialogue! I mean, if that’s not impressive, then I don’t know what is.

My 8-year-old son agrees, as he once said, “Dad, this game is better than that time you tried to make me eat broccoli by calling it ‘little green trees.'” I’ll take that as a win.

Platforms: Xbox, Xbox 360, PS2, and Gamecube

The game was released on a variety of consoles, which is great for those of us who have an ever-growing collection of gaming systems. Whether you’re team Xbox, PlayStation, or a Gamecube diehard, there’s a version for you.

It’s like LEGO and Star Wars joined forces to spread joy across the gaming universe. Now if only they could convince my 5-year-old daughter that it’s not a “boy game”…

Features a massive collection of playable characters

LEGO Star Wars II boasts a whopping array of characters. We’re talking over 50 playable heroes and villains from the original trilogy.

So whether you’re a fan of the dashing Han Solo, the wise Yoda, or even the pesky little Jawas, you’re sure to find your favorites here.

Compelling storytelling without dialogue

Now here’s the real kicker – the game tells a better story than the prequels, and it does so without a single word of dialogue. That’s right, folks, not a peep.

It’s like a silent movie, but way more entertaining. The game relies on visual gags and slapstick humor to convey the story, and it does a darn good job of it.

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes

Next up, we have a game that will make any comic book nerd’s heart sing – LEGO Marvel Super Heroes. This game features a gargantuan range of Marvel characters and tells an “original” story that allows for the inclusion of many Marvel heroes teaming up against Galactus.

It embraces the colorful and campy nature of the Marvel universe, creating one of the best entries in the LEGO game series.

Wide range of Marvel characters

If you’re a Marvel fan, you’re in for a treat. This game features over 100 playable characters from the Marvel universe, from heavyweights like Iron Man and Spider-Man to lesser-known heroes like Squirrel Girl and Howard the Duck.

Yes, you read that right – Howard the flippin’ Duck. There’s something for everyone.

Original story featuring team-ups against Galactus

The story in LEGO Marvel Super Heroes is as fresh as a newly opened bag of LEGO bricks. The plot revolves around our heroes joining forces to take down the voracious Galactus, who’s hell-bent on devouring the world.

The game takes you on a wild ride through iconic Marvel locations like the Baxter Building, the X-Mansion, and Asgard. You might even bump into Stan Lee along the way, who, in a classic move, makes a cameo as a damsel in distress.

Embraces comic book and campy nature of Marvel universe

The game embraces the whimsical and over-the-top nature of the Marvel universe, which is perfect for those who grew up reading the comics or watching the Saturday morning cartoons. It’s like taking a trip down memory lane, but with more explosions and LEGO bricks.

A top entry in the LEGO game series

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes is widely considered one of the best entries in the series, and for good reason. The game is chock-full of humor, action, and, of course, those delightful LEGO bricks.

As a parent, it’s nice to see a game that encourages teamwork and cooperation – even if it means my kids argue over who gets to be Thor.

Game TitleMetacritic Score
LEGO Star Wars II86
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes83
LEGO The Lord of The Rings82
LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes81
LEGO Batman: The Videogame80
LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga80
LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures80
LEGO Rock Band80
LEGO City Undercover80
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-780

LEGO The Lord of The Rings

One ring to rule them all! LEGO The Lord of the Rings is based on the hit movies and follows the epic journey of the fellowship across Middle-Earth.

With levels from every movie and an open-world hub in between missions, this game offers additional gameplay aspects like combat actions and sneaking. However, the game is not available digitally due to an expired licensing agreement.

Talk about precious!

Based on the hit movies

If you’re a fan of Peter Jackson’s masterful adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s literary classics, then this game is right up your alley. LEGO The Lord of the Rings manages to capture the grandeur and adventure of the films, all while adding that unique LEGO touch.

Even my 12-year-old daughter, who’s never been a big fan of the fantasy genre, finds herself enthralled by this blocky rendition of Middle-Earth.

Features levels from every movie

The game covers all three movies, from the idyllic Shire to the fiery Mount Doom. This means you’ll get to relive all the iconic moments from the trilogy, but with a comedic twist.

Remember the heart-wrenching scene where Boromir meets his end? In the LEGO version, it’s more like “death by banana peels.” It’s like watching the movies through a funhouse mirror, and I can’t get enough of it.

Open-world hub and additional gameplay aspects

Between missions, you can explore an expansive open-world hub that includes iconic locations like Rivendell, Rohan, and Gondor. This game also introduces new gameplay aspects like combat actions and sneaking.

So, whether you’re a master swordsman like Aragorn or a stealthy burglar like Bilbo, there’s something for everyone.

Licensing issues

Now for the bittersweet news – the game is not available digitally due to an expired licensing agreement. This means you’ll have to hunt down a physical copy like it’s the One Ring itself.

But trust me, it’s worth the effort.

LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes

To the Batcave! LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes is the stellar sequel to LEGO Batman: The Videogame. It improves on the first game in nearly every aspect, from a traversable Gotham City as a hub world to the inclusion of other characters from the DC Universe.

With the Joker and Lex Luthor teaming up, it’s time for Batman and friends to save the day. The game offers an enjoyable romp through the DC Universe and is a must-play for fans of the caped crusader and his superpowered pals.

Traversable Gotham City hub world

One of the biggest improvements over the first game is the addition of a traversable Gotham City hub world. This sprawling open-world environment lets you explore iconic locations like Wayne Manor, Arkham Asylum, and even the Batcave.

It’s like a blocky love letter to Batman fans everywhere. My 8-year-old son loves to swing around the city as Spider-Man—oops, wrong game—er, I mean, glide around as Batman.

Inclusion of other DC characters

LEGO Batman 2 isn’t just about the Dark Knight; it also includes a vast array of other characters from the DC Universe. From Superman to Wonder Woman, and even lesser-known heroes like Bat-Mite, this game is a veritable who’s who of DC Comics.

My 5-year-old daughter particularly enjoys playing as Wonder Woman, lassoing bad guys and proving that girls can be superheroes too.

Joker and Lex Luthor team up

The plot of LEGO Batman 2 sees the Joker and Lex Luthor joining forces in a nefarious scheme to take over Gotham City (and, by extension, the world). It’s up to Batman, Robin, and their superpowered friends to stop these dastardly villains and save the day.

The story is a rollicking ride that captures the thrilling essence of classic comic book team-ups.

LEGO Batman: The Videogame

Hold onto your batarangs, because LEGO Batman: The Videogame was the first LEGO game to feature an original story. Heavily based on the comics rather than movies, this game showcased a unique role reversal and dual hubs.

If you’re a fan of the DC comics universe, you’ll be over the moon (or should I say Bat-Signal?) with this one.

First LEGO game with an original story

Before LEGO Batman, the games were tightly tethered to their source material. But this game broke the mold, delivering an original story that brought new life to Gotham’s heroes and villains.

Based on comics, not movies

Instead of relying on movie adaptations, LEGO Batman dives deep into the rich world of the comics. This allowed the developers to explore a vast array of characters and storylines, some of which never made it to the big screen.

So, if you’re a DC comics aficionado, this game is like a treasure trove of comic book goodness.

Unique role reversal and dual hubs

LEGO Batman: The Videogame features a unique role reversal, with the second half of the game telling the story from the villains’ perspective. Talk about a twist!

The game also sports two hubs: the Batcave and Arkham Asylum.

Popular among fans of the DC comics universe

For fans of the DC comics universe, LEGO Batman: The Videogame is a must-play. With its original story and comic-based characters, this game brings the magic of the comics to life, one LEGO brick at a time.

LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga

Get ready for a galactic adventure with LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga. This game melds both Star Wars trilogies, covering all six Star Wars movies at the time of its release.

With a massive collection of playable characters and strong storytelling without dialogue, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a plastic galaxy far, far away.

Combines both Star Wars trilogies

LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga brings together the best of both worlds: the original trilogy and the prequel trilogy. This means you can relive the epic tale of the Skywalker family from beginning to end, all in one game.

It’s like having a Star Wars movie marathon, but with more bricks and fewer bathroom breaks.

All six Star Wars movies at release

At the time of its release, this game featured all six Star Wars movies, making it a comprehensive experience for fans of the franchise.

From the iconic battle of Hoth to the dramatic duel between Obi-Wan and Anakin, LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga has it all.

Massive collection of playable characters

With a roster of over 100 playable characters, LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga offers an unparalleled level of variety.

From Jedi Masters to Sith Lords, and even some obscure background characters, this game has something for every Star Wars fan.

Some of our family favorites include:

  • Luke Skywalker: The farm boy turned Jedi Knight.
  • Princess Leia: The feisty leader of the Rebel Alliance.
  • Darth Vader: The iconic Sith Lord with a tragic past.
  • Jar Jar Binks: The clumsy Gungan that my 5-year-old can’t get enough of, despite my attempts to convince her otherwise.

Strong storytelling without dialogue

One of the most impressive aspects of LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga is its ability to tell a compelling story without a single word of dialogue. Instead, the game relies on visual storytelling and classic LEGO humor to bring the epic saga to life.

LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures

Grab your fedora and whip, because LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures takes you on a rip-roaring journey through the three original Indiana Jones movies.

With 18 playable levels filled with classic LEGO humor, a wide variety of playable characters, and visual gags modifying the original movies, you’ll feel like a true brick-building archaeologist.

Based on the original Indiana Jones movies

LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures covers the events of the first three Indiana Jones films: Raiders of the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom, and The Last Crusade.

So, whether you’re a fan of face-melting Ark openings or dramatic Holy Grail choices, this game has you covered.

18 playable levels with classic LEGO humor

The game offers 18 playable levels filled with classic LEGO humor and iconic moments from the movies. Some standout levels include:

  • Escaping the boulder in the opening of Raiders of the Lost Ark.
  • Rescuing Short Round from the mines in Temple of Doom.
  • Taking on Nazis and solving ancient puzzles in The Last Crusade.

Wide variety of playable characters

LEGO Indiana Jones features a smorgasbord of characters from the movies, including:

  • Indiana Jones: The adventurous archaeologist himself.
  • Marion Ravenwood: Indy’s tough and resourceful love interest.
  • Short Round: The pint-sized sidekick from Temple of Doom.
  • Dr. Elsa Schneider: The double-crossing archaeologist from The Last Crusade.

With so many characters to choose from, there’s no shortage of opportunities to create your own blocky adventures.

Visual gags modifying the original movies

One of the best things about LEGO Indiana Jones is the way it incorporates visual gags that modify the original movies, adding a layer of LEGO charm to the cinematic scenes.

For example, when Indy faces off against a swordsman in Raiders of the Lost Ark, he pulls out a banana instead of a gun. These hilarious moments keep my whole family in stitches every time we play.

LEGO Rock Band

Rock out with LEGO Rock Band, a unique crossover between the music video game Rock Band and the LEGO brand. Featuring music and gameplay tailored for younger audiences, this game retains the core elements of a music game while providing a family-friendly twist.

If you’re looking for a fresh addition to the LEGO game lineup, LEGO Rock Band hits all the right notes.

Crossover between Rock Band and LEGO brand

LEGO Rock Band is a harmonious blend of two beloved franchises, creating a unique gameplay experience that appeals to both LEGO and music game fans. It’s like someone took my kids’ LEGO sets and my old garage band equipment and threw them into a melodic blender.

Music and gameplay for younger audiences

One of the key features of LEGO Rock Band is its focus on providing music and gameplay that’s accessible to younger players. The game includes a variety of kid-friendly songs and adjustable difficulty settings, so even my 5-year-old can rock out with the rest of us.

Some popular songs in the game include:

  • “We Will Rock You” by Queen
  • “Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas
  • “So What” by Pink

Retains core elements of a music game

Despite its LEGO twist, the game still retains the core elements of a music game, such as:

  • Playing guitar, bass, drums, and singing along with the songs
  • Earning points and multipliers for hitting the right notes
  • Competing against other players or cooperating in a band

Unique addition to the LEGO game lineup

LEGO Rock Band stands out as a distinctive entry in the LEGO game series, offering a fresh gameplay experience for fans of both LEGO and music games.

It’s not every day you get to see LEGO minifigures rocking out on stage, and trust me, it’s just as amusing as it sounds.

LEGO City Undercover

Dive into the world of LEGO City Undercover, an original story not based on a licensed property. Follow the adventures of Chase McCain as he tries to take down crime boss Rex Fury.

With its ties to the physical LEGO set and the signature charm of Traveller’s Tales, this game offers a truly unique LEGO gaming experience.

Original story not based on a licensed property

Unlike many other LEGO games, LEGO City Undercover features an original story that isn’t based on a licensed property. This allows the game to explore new characters and scenarios without being constrained by existing narratives.

It’s like playing with a brand-new LEGO set where the only limit is your imagination.

Follows Chase McCain and crime boss Rex Fury

In LEGO City Undercover, players take on the role of Chase McCain, a police officer on a mission to bring down crime boss Rex Fury. The game features a variety of missions, side quests, and collectibles, making it a rich and engaging experience that my 8-year-old son can’t get enough of.

He even started wearing a makeshift police badge and “arresting” his sisters for “crimes” like stealing cookies.

Advertises the physical LEGO set

LEGO City Undercover serves as an advertisement for the physical LEGO City set, which features a variety of vehicles, buildings, and characters that players can collect and build. My kids love recreating scenes from the game with their LEGO sets, turning our living room into a mini LEGO City.

Developed by Traveller’s Tales with LEGO charm

Developed by Traveller’s Tales, the studio behind many other beloved LEGO games, LEGO City Undercover carries the signature charm that fans have come to know and love. The game is filled with humor, quirky characters, and the whimsical LEGO aesthetic that never fails to put a smile on our faces.

Here are some highlights of LEGO City Undercover:

  • Open-world exploration: The game offers a sprawling open-world LEGO City to explore, filled with bustling streets, towering buildings, and hidden secrets. It’s like having a LEGO metropolis at your fingertips, and my kids and I have spent countless hours just getting lost in the city’s brick-filled nooks and crannies.
  • Variety of missions and activities: From high-speed car chases to undercover disguises, LEGO City Undercover keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting. You’ll find yourself solving puzzles, apprehending criminals, and even hitching a ride on a pig (yes, you read that correctly). There’s never a dull moment in LEGO City.
  • Humor and witty dialogue: The game is packed with lighthearted humor and witty dialogue that appeals to both kids and adults. The comedic timing and clever references will have you chuckling as you embark on Chase McCain’s crime-fighting adventures. My 5-year-old may not always catch the jokes, but she loves the funny voices the characters make.
  • LEGO charm in every corner: LEGO City Undercover is brimming with the endearing LEGO charm that makes these games so special. From the way the city is constructed with LEGO bricks to the delightful animations and interactions, it’s a reminder of the joy and creativity that LEGO brings into our lives.

LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7

Accio LEGO bricks! LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 takes you on a magical journey through the final three Harry Potter books and four movies.

With comedic adjustments to the plotlines for co-op gameplay, a hub world featuring iconic locations, and a wide variety of characters and outfits from the Harry Potter universe, this game is a spellbinding addition to the LEGO game collection.

Covers final three Harry Potter books and four movies

If you’re a fan of the Boy Who Lived, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will transport you to the wizarding world like never before. The game covers the events of the final three books (Order of the Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, and Deathly Hallows) and the corresponding movies.

It’s like being enrolled at Hogwarts, but without the Potions homework.

Comedic adjustments to plotlines for co-op gameplay

LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 adds its own touch of comic flair to the already magical world of Harry Potter. The game takes comedic liberties with the plotlines, infusing them with quirky humor and hilarious visual gags.

It’s as if Fred and George Weasley got their hands on the script and added a pinch of mischief.

24 playable chapters and hub world locations

With 24 playable chapters in total (six chapters per movie), LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 offers a substantial gameplay experience. Each chapter is packed with puzzles, spells, and adventures that will test your magical abilities.

Plus, the game features a hub world that includes iconic locations like Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and Hogsmeade. Exploring these familiar places feels like stepping into J.K. Rowling’s enchanting universe.

Wide variety of characters and outfits from the Harry Potter universe

Get ready to don your wizarding robes and grab your wands, because LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 boasts a wide variety of playable characters and a plethora of outfits from the Harry Potter universe.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Harry, Ron, and Hermione or you want to unlock lesser-known characters like Luna Lovegood and Neville Longbottom, there’s a character for everyone.

Some notable characters and outfits include:

  • Harry Potter: The Chosen One himself, with his iconic lightning-shaped scar.
  • Hermione Granger: The brilliant and resourceful witch, ready to solve any magical problem.
  • Ron Weasley: The loyal and sometimes clumsy friend, always up for an adventure.
  • Bellatrix Lestrange: The wicked Death Eater with her twisted sense of fashion.
  • Dobby: The lovable and loyal house-elf, always ready to lend a helping hand.

With the ability to change outfits, you can dress your characters in their school uniforms, casual attire, or even some wild and wacky costumes. My 12-year-old daughter loves unlocking new outfits and creating her own fashion show in the game.

Which Lego Game Is The Best To Buy?

All of the Legos games that I have covered in this article are excellent choices but which one is the absolute best? Well… unfortunately it varies!

Ultimately which Lego game is the best depends on which movie series you like the best.

  1. For Star Wars Fans: LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga is the ultimate choice. It combines both the original and prequel trilogies, offering a comprehensive Star Wars experience. With its massive collection of playable characters and strong storytelling, it captures the essence of the beloved franchise. Whether you’re a fan of the classic trilogy or the prequels, this game delivers an immersive and entertaining Star Wars adventure.
  2. For Marvel Enthusiasts: LEGO Marvel Super Heroes is the top pick. It embraces the vast Marvel universe and features a wide range of characters. The game’s original story, filled with LEGO humor and campy moments, appeals to fans of all ages. If you’re eager to team up with your favorite Marvel superheroes and face off against the notorious Galactus, this game will provide endless fun and excitement.
  3. For DC Comics Lovers: LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes is the ultimate choice. With its traversable Gotham City hub and inclusion of a wide variety of DC characters, this game is a treat for DC fans. The improved gameplay mechanics, enjoyable romp through the DC roster, and excellent voice acting make it a standout title. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the adventures of Batman and his superpowered allies in a LEGO world.
  4. For Harry Potter Devotees: LEGO Harry Potter is a must-play. It covers the final three Harry Potter books and four movies, capturing the magical essence of the Wizarding World. The game’s comedic adjustments to the plotlines, vast roster of characters, and faithful representation of Hogwarts provide an immersive and enchanting experience. If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, this game allows you to relive the adventures in a delightful LEGO form.

Considering the above options, my personal opinion on the absolute best LEGO game is LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga. It combines beloved Star Wars stories, a massive collection of characters, and strong storytelling.

The game offers an immersive experience for both Star Wars and LEGO enthusiasts, capturing the magic and charm of the franchise. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim make it a standout title in the LEGO game series.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks—a comprehensive rundown of the best LEGO games available for modern consoles. With each game offering its own unique charm and endless hours of brick-building fun, you and your family are sure to have a blast.

So, whether you’re a fan of Star Wars, Marvel, or DC, grab a controller and dive headfirst into these side-splitting yet informative LEGO adventures.

Matthew R

Hi, My name is Matt and I am all about toys! When trying to find accurate information online about toys I was finding it difficult so I decided to make this site.

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