Breakspear

Based on the exploding popularity of Castle-adjacent figures in recent CMF series (think Wolfpack Beastmaster, Dragonborn Paladin and the Tournament Knight) It seems entirely plausible that the Lego Group could release a Castle themed CMF series. In addition to the precedent of the recent Space CMF series, possible reasons in a favour of a Castle CMF series include: Lego have a proven track-record of responding to market demand for new Castle figures including: the relaunch of various retro Castle factions, the return of the goat mould (specifically, in a Castle/CMF context), and its fan poll on factions to include in the upcoming Lego IDEAS Minifigure Prize Machine set. A Castle CMF series might have broad appeal to both adults and kids A Castle CMF series would be consistent with the Lego Group's current strategy of delivering Castle products via other existing themes (Creator 3-in-1, Icons etc) instead of re-launching Castle as its own theme. A Castle CMF series could be an efficient way to satisfy AFOL demands for the re-introduction of Castle battle-packs, while avoiding the need to re-launch Castle as its own theme (see Point 3 above). A wish to disrupt the various hording/scalping activity that currently occurs for Castle CMFs. However, there are also several reasons the Lego Group might be holding back: A Castle-themed series could be seen as too similar to recent D&D series Lego might believe that single-theme non-IP CMF series sell worse then generic non-IP CMF series or IP CMF series (NB: I have no idea if this is true, but I assume Lego will examine the performance of the Space CMF series closely to draw any conclusions) There have already been a lot of Castle and Castle adjacent (i.e historical and fantasy) themed figures released as past of past CMF series, meaning there is less justification for a dedicated Castle-themed CMF series. In comparison, the number of Space-themed CMFs or Horror-themed CMF figures included in past CMF series were comparatively low before Lego released the dedicated Space and Horror themed CMF series (Series 26 and Series 14 respectively). Unlike Space, there are fewer pop-culture Castle tropes to exploit then Space tropes. The Lego CMF design team may wish to conserve its designs for Castle figures/retro re-makes to drip feed into each new non-IP series (i.e. what they are doing currently). The fear that a Castle-CMF series might actually exacerbate the current hording/scalping activity for Castle-themed CMFs, resulting in a much wider customer backlash. i.e. it might be too popular (???). Lego may already have a full calendar of future CMF releases planned meaning there may be no space to add a Castle CMF series in the immediate future, irrespective of how popular it could be (??). Of these reasons for holding back, #5 (a desire to drip feed retro-Castle figs into regular CMF series) feels the most credible to me. However, I do think this would be a mistake, and that Lego would be leaving money on the table if it took this approach. There appears to be sufficient demand for new Castle figures to support the release of a Castle-themed CMF series AND the ongoing inclusion of Castle figures in future regular un-themed CMF series. What might a Castle CMF series would look like? I think the posts above by @Lion King are a very good indication of what to expect: 3 or 4 classic/redux figures, supported by a range of other fantasy figures and funny/silly cross-over figures (e.g. an archeologist, Cyborg knight etc) My own ideas would be: Black Knight Redux WIlla the Witch Redux Credric the Bull Redux Royal Herald Astrologer or Alchemist Peasant Farmer Fantasy Elf King Fantasy Prince Charming Fantasy Ghostly King Chess Rook Costume Cowardly Knight with 'Chicken' Shield (Sir Robin Monty Python Tribute) Wicked Sheriff (Robin Hood Tribute)

The Quartermaster minifigure has risen a lot my estimation since its official reveal. I'd now consider it one the most innovative pirate figures of recent years. The designer has clearly tried to think outside the most common pirate tropes (tricornes, bicornes, eyepatches etc.) and give us a completely new take on a female pirate. I love the fine printed details: the patterned leg print, the notched boot tops, the lace sleeves, the gold tooth, the different bracelets on each wrist, and the shiny necklace and compass on the torso. My overall favorite design detail is the fabric waist cape, which gives some fun three-dimensionality to the thick red sash printed across the lower torso and hips. Like others, my least favorite design detail is the hair piece. However, I also think the overall concept of a hair/headscarf combo is good, and the re-colour of the specific piece in black is welcome. I'm curious to try this figure with a headscarf with hair down (e.g.11254pb02), or long wavy hair with no hat or scarf (e.g. 90396). While I would have preferred an updated macaw, the new cockatoo piece is really fun and further demonstrates the designer's commitment to giving us something completely new. I agree! More diversity in appearance and facial expressions for Lego female heads would be very welcome. I've certainly noticed the bias you describe of Lego favoring female prettiness over 'un-pretty' features - even when 'un-prettiness' might have made sense in the context of the set itself (a good non-pirate example is the recent Viking blacksmith). Scanning my own collection of female heads I find that "gleeful/exuberant", "neutral smile/pretty smile", and "smirking" expressions, as well as faces with freckles/moles/beauty spots are over-represented, while heads with scars, wrinkles, frowns, anger or sternness are much less common. I'm delighted to see the new Quartermaster has cheekbones - a detail which I think has been relatively more common in Lego's male rather then female faces in the past(?).

It's very impressive how you've managed to capture the authentic look of 1800's naval seamen. Personally, I've always struggled with the limited range of suitable sailor torso options in the official Lego parts catalogue. Some of the details I particularly enjoy are: The combination of sleeve-less fabric jackets with colour-matched miniifigure arms: surprisingly effective! The improvised hair-hat combos: I particularly like the marines - the hair makes the use of the 'top hat' shako pieces seem much more natural. The subtle improvised neck cloths

Regarding the rumoured use of disembodied minifigure heads and racing helmets in the F1 CMF series: while I’m not a fan of the idea as a whole, I do think the it could be partially redeemed if LEGO included some sort of body piece(s) in the box as an extra. The cheapest option would be to include an unprinted Dreamlings body piece (element 1994). While still not a proper CMF, that would at least allow kids to assemble some sort of driver figure to play with. The Dreamlings piece is roughly to scale with the mini build F1 cars, and does look a bit jumpsuit-like. It could have a certain cartoonish/cute appeal, much like the recent baby spaceman figures. Just a random thought. 😊

Well this series looks very promising! The Steampunk Inventor is the one I'm most excited about, but the Beastmaster, Quartermaster and Cupid are also very welcome. Fingers-crossed Cupid has nice classical toga torso print, without too many love-specific details (hearts etc).. That would be an absolute god-send for Roman and Greek mocs/figbarfs. I'm interested to see how the designers approach the more ambiguous figures like "Bogeyman" or "Jetpack Racer" - lots of scope for creativity.

Judging purely by reactions to early reviews of the DnD Series, Lego seems to have a hit on its hands. If so, we should perhaps pencil in a likely second DnD series in 2025-2026. I find the the idea of an F1 CMF Series (as part of the rumored 2025 F1 sub-theme) some what plausible but also somewhat perplexing. If true, Lego could go a few different directions with this one: a 'serious' tribute to past/present F1 teams/drivers: this would put emphasis on the accurately capturing the driver's identifies and brand logos. Would be akin to the 2016 DFB Football Team Series). a 'fun' tribute - similar to the above, but a bit more goofy? E.g. each figure comes with a unique wearable 'car' accessory costume, akin to the Series 18 "Race Car Guy" figure. A series based around the broader theme of F1 racing, but not tied to the identities of specific drivers. Could include a wider range of characters (e.g. driver, engineer, mechanic, pit crew, chequered flag-waver, sports commentator etc). Designs could be relatively 'serious/realistic' (akin to the Team GB Olympic Series), or more off the wall (akin to the Series 26 "Space" Series). In principle, I think blind-bag series work best when they have a sense of fun and where there is a lot of visual diversity across the entire series. This makes me feel that something like option 2 or 3 would be more commercially viable then option 1. Of course, anything can happen!

Yeah, It might! However, I have faith in the designers capacity to surprise us (the Series 24 Potter is a good recent example of a well designed figure wearing protective clothing). My point is that City minifigures are the single largest reoccurring sub theme across past CMF series, so its reasonable to expect that these could get a dedicated series at some point. Sure its not the most exciting, but I expect it would be popular kids.

I agree that the lack of a specific 'Bridegroom' figure feels odd, given we have CMFs for virtually every other major life stage. Yes, it would be challenging for the designers to make the figure feel special, but I trust they are up to the task! As you suggest, it might result in the most detailed tux print ever, complete with elaborate boutonniere, as well as arm and leg printing. A new 'kneeling leg' mold would be a game changer. A mythology/fantasy themed series would be a personal dream come true! Other possibilities for future themed series could be a 'world history' series (i.e. a collection of CMFs inspired by classical antiquity, non-fantasy medieval, and early modern world history); an animal costume series; and an 'global culture' series (with CMFs in various national dress), a 'world of work' series (a Lego City-compatible series based on iconic jobs/professions - this might involve revisiting some figures from past CMF series).

Wow, what a great bunch of designs to choose from. The various animal sigils all look great. I'm still weighing up my vote, but am likely to go with the Crows (Ravens) .The Tournament Knight CMF is (IMO) the best looking new faction in recent years, and I would love to get a second variant. The gryphon a great heraldic animal, and gives off strong 'medieval' vibes. The colours are perhaps a little drab compared to the other designs, but I'm confident it would look great as a full figure. I'm imagining the figure wearing a dark red surcoat with white gryphon chest emblem, white arms and silver helmet and pauldrons. I'm confident it would look great. A very safe choice. I love the redesign of the Bull shield. Splitting the background colour into four quadrants looks great - I wish Lego would do this more often! I like the larger number of rivets around the edge of the shield. I would not not mind if this won. Judging by social media, the Kraken seems to have seized the popular imagination. Personally, I find the colour choices least appealing for some reason. Would have preferred to see more high contrast colour combinations, such as 'dark azure and yellow', or 'teal, black and white'. Overall, the Kraken feels like a bit of a wildcard choice and the one which gives Lego maximum scope for creativity. It could end up being really excellent figure - or not!

Temple looks nice! Love the interesting minifigure selection. Always keen to get new heads prints with monocles.

In terms of 'what next' for Castle in 2025-2026, I think a farming set or a tournament set are the most obvious choices. Either would work well alongside the LKC and Mediaeval Town Square. A tournament set would give wide scope to bring back old factions, or introduce new ones. Over the longer term (once the LKC has retired) there is the possibility of TLG releasing some sort black castle (a homage to 6085 or 6086). On current trends, this feels like a near certainty to me. A more radical idea would be for TLG to create a large scale (i.e. 2000+ pieces) version of the Sea Serpent (i.e. a medieval cog made to similar proportions to 70618 Destiny's Bounty). I'd rate this as a low likelihood at present, but something I'd love to see happen. TLG knows ships sell well, and such a set would, I think, have broad appeal with Castle and Pirates fans. In terms of factions: the most obvious gap in the current wave of redux factions is the Black Knights. In the immediate future, this could be most easily achieved via a Tournament set (see above) or via a CMF series (akin to the S25 Vampire Knight). A CMF figure seems like the more logical choice to me, as a high parts budget will be required in order to furnish the new plumes, shields and other printed accessories required to match past glories (e.g. 6009).

Cool list! I love so many of these. I can easily imagine TLG producing a Female Pirate Captain (Pirate Queen?). "Pirate Fairy" is nice and whimsical - I can definitely see the designers having fun with that one. As additional ideas for costume figures, may I suggest "Monkey Costume Fan" or "Parrot Costume Fan" (Red Macaw). I wonder what historical or pop culture references TLG could include in a potential Pirates Series? Perhaps a "Gentlemen Pirate" with a long wig (alluding to Stede Bonnet) or a "Sea Cook" with a wooden leg Inspired by R.L Stevenson's Long-John Silver? Like @panda1, I hope that TLG does give us another Islander CMF figure one day. I'm optimistic they could do a female gender swap of the CMF from the Series 11 "Island Warrior" without it proving controversial.

I think a Pirates series and a Castle series are possible. 'Wild West' too (with the usual caveats). These all provide scope for TLG to include 3-4 'redux' characters from classic themes, with the remaining 8-9 figures comprised of whimsical costume figures and riffs on pop culture tropes. Plus, they are potentially cheap(er) for TLG to produce, as it would be able to leverage its existing moulids for these themes. I can certainly see them doing a 'Global Cultures' series - they have done some of these already (e.g. Lederhosen Guy, Geisha, Bagpiper, Royal Guard, Mariarchi, Flamenco Dancer etc), so no reason for them not to do more. A historical focused series would be logical (history/mythology figures are a staple of unlicensed CMF series). This could go in a few different directions: Classical history and/or mythology: one or more series inspired by ancient civilizations )e.g. Egypt, India, China, Greece and Rome). This would include a mix of mythology (Odin, Zeus, Anubis, Sphinx etc) and reality (e.g. Pretorian Guard, Ancient Thespian, Philosopher, Sculptor, Princess, Terracotta Warrior, Maharajah). A fun history idea I'd like to see would be a 'Trojan Horse' inspired figure: a Hellenic Warrior with gold helmet, shield and sword, wearing a printed horse costume piece (in the style of the 18 CMF Cowboy and Horse Suit Minifigure). 'Famous people from history' - in the vein of the Abe Lincoln and William Shakespeare mini-figures previously released. This would focus on leaders, artists, musicians and thinkers from the pre-1900's (e.g. Louis XIV, Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Nefertiti, Aristotle, Da Vinci, Mozart etc). Of these, I think the 'classical history + mythology' option would give designers the greatest scope for creativity/whimsy in their designs.

I'm supportive of letting the kids play with the big, adult-focused Castle sets too. I've had great fun sharing my Castle Lego with my daughter since age 5, with minimal mishaps. She mainly enjoys customising the Black Falcon knights to make kick-megablocks fantasy 'warrior queen' type heroines! (e.g. adding golden golden helmet, armor and wings from the CMF Flying Warrior). The Lion Knights Castle seems pretty play-friendly for kids: great doll-house style design and not too much fine detail to knock off. In terms of permanent loss/damage, I think in the worst case you might end up with a broken shield or two, but as long as you're ok with that, go for it!. You can order a few spares on PAB, which limits the risk.

i think its very do-able, although I think the chances of it actually happening are pretty low. Duplo, Creator, Classic, Technic, CMFs, Icons, Architecture, Art and DreamZzz are all easily capable of accommodating Castle-themed sets/imagery. City and Friends are more challenging, but also do-able under the guise of theme park, fair, theatre, museum, 'grand hotel' type sets. I agree with the OP that the primary audience for any such multi-theme Castle wave would be to introduce Castle to child fans of the existing themes (i..e not adult Castle collectors). Nevertheless, TLG could reasonably hope to pick up a few AFOL sales as well, given the absolute lack of small-mid range Castle sets currently on shelves (not including GWPs). A couple of other thoughts: Of the above mentioned existing themes, which is most suitable to host the largest number of Castle sets? For 2024 Space collection, the largest number of sets were released under the City theme (7 sets). This is followed by Technic (4), Friends (2) and other themes having only a single set each. Plus a couple of poly-bags. This approach makes sense, as Space has existed as an established sub-theme of City for many years. Castle lacks this advantage of a natural 'home' theme to provide the backbone of the wave. Unlike Space/Sci-Fi imagery, medieval or castle-adjacent imagery gets used a lot more regularly across TLG's contemporary retail offering. This includes recent Creator and ICONs and IDEAS releases, as well major licensed themes (Disney, Harry Potter, LoTR and now, D&D). Does this make a 2025-2026 Castle wave more likely (because there is evidently an established audience for it) or less likely (because that demand is already being served)?