Press a specific sequence of buttons on the controller, and lights hidden inside the brick build switch on — a move familiar to players from the early 2000s, now faithfully recreated in brick form.
Under its premium brick label Mattel Brick Shop, Mattel has released a 3,509-piece building set that recreates the original Xbox console and its infamously oversized "Duke" controller at 1:1 scale, timed to coincide with the platform's upcoming 25th anniversary. Once built, the console's top panel can be flipped open to trigger a recreation of the original Xbox boot-up screen.
Inside the console shell are three removable, modular dioramas paying tribute to Halo: Combat Evolved, The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind, and Psychonauts — all standout titles from the original Xbox's lineup. The scenes can be slotted into the main build for display or removed to stand on their own. The set also comes with twelve one-inch NanoWorld figures, eight from the Halo universe and two each from Morrowind and Psychonauts.
The Duke controller isn't just for show. Pressing its buttons triggers sound effects and lights matched to each diorama, paired with the respective game's original soundtrack. Enter a hidden button combination, and you'll unlock an additional light effect — a direct nod to the cheat code culture of early video games.
The set is priced at $330 and is now available for pre-order on Amazon, Best Buy, and the Mattel Creations website, with shipping expected to begin October 1.
