Why do LEGO toys have value to you?
I have enjoyed LEGO for over 25yrs. It has had a part in developing my mind (spatial relations, creativity, problem solving). They are valuable to me as a stress reliever. It is my hobby.
What makes LEGO brand construction toys worth your money?
The precision manufacturing process which makes the bricks and other elements almost perfect. The old Castle theme was very cool and LEGO has done a great job with the StarWars line.
In what way has the LEGO brand let you down?
The discontinuation of historically similar Castle line. But they have many other good lines, just not teh ONE that most appeals to me.
Recently, how has the LEGO brand improved?
The creator sets are very cool. Builing Bonanza is a great set. The new Knight's Kingdom line is a big improvement over the first, and over Fright Knights. The Original Trilogy StarWars sets (Sandcrawler) that are being released are very good. More bricks, less big elements in many of this years sets. Oh, yes....VIKINGS!!
What would you like to see LEGO (re)introduce in the next three years?
Historically reasonable Castle, Pirates. More affordable basic elements from S@H. The Vikings should be expanded to include buildings and agriculture. Premolded cows, pigs and chickens, as we have cool horses, rats, birds and owls. Not a big fan of too much premolded, but to stay with scale of minifigs, it is OK.
What does LEGO need to do to sell more products for less cost to them?
I have no idea. The licensed sets seem to have a low piece count for the MSRP. I guess, making available what people who are fans of LEGO would like to see. Not bowing to every whim, but rather, trying to capatalize on a known group. A lot of people I talk to in stores think LEGO is expensive, and it is. But it is quality, high quality. A lot of todays kids could care less. I buy only LEGO for my neices and nephews in order to spread the fascination (for my 2 children as well).
What reason(s) do you have for not buying new LEGO sets?
Money is always an issue. But if I see a set I really want, there is no stopping me. Mostly a lack of interest in what is offered. Too many large molded parts in recent years and not enough bricks and basic elements. A swiveling door can be used as....a swiveling door, and one or two of these in a collection is enough. When a siege tower is made out of the frames.....well, you get the idea. More usable pieces are a must.
What would it take for you to spend more money on new LEGO products versus buying sets/parts on the second hand markets?
More useful Castle minifigs. More basic elements in sets. A lot of what I have already mentioned, including lowering the prices of certain basic bricks on S@H (2xn and 1xn)
What will it take for LEGO to remain the best construction toy for all ages and be a profitable company?
See the products from 1978 (introduction of minifigs) through to the early 90's? That is what has brought LEGO a devout fan base. The StarWars figs are cool and the sets are based on a timeless tale of adventure, which started in 1977, but has a new interest with the young people today. Perhaps the "old" LEGO themes would appeal to this generation in a similar way (no need to reinvent the wheel)?
What are your home country, name and age?
Canada. Troy T. Moore. 32.
