The crowdfunding stage of Series 4 of the BrickLink Designer Program begins today, at 8 AM Pacific time. Crowdfunding for this series ends on March 1st, 2025 at 12 PM Pacific time, or once all sets sell out. As we know from previous series, many of these upcoming sets sell out within hours, so if you would like to get any of them, it’s best not to delay!
As usual, BrickLink members may pre-order their favorite sets from the series, with a limit of 2 of each set per household. All sets that receive over 3,000 pre-orders will be produced. Up to 30,000 of each set will be manufactured during a limited, one-time production run. There are five sets in this series, and information about them is included below as well as on the crowdfunding page.
Merchant Boat by NicolasCarlier – While the overall shape and design of this steamboat are entirely of Nicolas’ own imagination, their approach involved drawing inspiration from various references. From actual boat photography to paintings and concept art, each reference played a big role in shaping the final concept. The essence of the design lies in giving a manually crafted look to the boat, achieved through the incorporation of reclaimed elements from the merchant’s voyage. Experimenting with different colors and unusual shapes complements the desired final aesthetic. On the deck, you will find the main cabin, including a bed, a small kitchen, as well as a dining table. The upper floor is accessible through a side wooden staircase at the back of the ship. The design includes two paddle wheels, on both sides of the boat. The upper floor and the roof can be detached to access the inside of the model. 2,180 parts, 4 minifigures, 3 stickers. Price: $169.99
Wild West Train by llucky – At the head of the train is a steam locomotive, styled in true Wild West fashion. It features a gray boiler with a tangle of pipes and a large chimney at the front, all decked out in dark red and gilded details. The cabin features brown windows, giving it a classic, rustic look. There is also a coal car, a passenger car, a transport car, and an open car. Next to the train, there’s a tall water tower, filled with water for the steam boiler. A little further away, there’s a windmill powering a pump that pumps water into the water tower. The train is designed to be easily motorized. 3,192 parts, 12 minifigures, 17 stickers. Price: $279.99
Medieval Seaside Market by Bricks_fan_uy – Welcome to Willport! The model consists of a seaside castle with a market and port inside. It is arranged so that the focal point is actually the rear side of the castle instead of the gate as it usually is. For ease of use, the model can be split into four sections. The set includes the main tower, the wagon and ship, the market area, the lighthouse tower, as well as side towers. Despite being a castle at its core, it is also a port that can be appealing to pirate fans, at the same time, it’s also a marketplace for those who enjoy the everyday life scenes more than the battling, conquering, and raiding scenarios. Another key aspect is that although LEGO has released several boats for the castle theme, there has never been a port set where they all can dock and interact. In a way, this set integrates with people’s collections and could easily make its way into LEGO fans’ medieval villages. 2,560 parts, 9 minifigures. Price: $229.99
Siege Encampment by SleeplessNight – Introducing the Advanced Encampment, where the art of medieval warfare meets precision and preparation! This strategically designed camp ensures not only the might of our offensive weaponry but also the backbone of support needed for a triumphant siege. Includes accommodations fit for nobles, grunts’ quarters, field kitchen, herbalist, weaponry repair shop, supply cart, defensive stockades, a mighty trebuchet, catapult, and versatile armament. The advanced encampment is more than just a military base; it’s a complete strategy for success! 2,598 parts, 18 minifigures, 11 stickers. Price: $229.99
Riverside Scholars by Hanwas – The Riverside Scholars is the next set in the Hanwas’ original theme, The Mountain Windmill Series. The theme was created whilst writing a story for his sons. The Mountain Windmill was released as part of the BrickLink Invitational and The Ocean House is due to enter crowdfunding next year. The story tells of the mysterious Mountain Windmill that holds mysteries long since forgotten by the villagers who live in its shadow. The journey to the windmill is too dangerous to travel, until, that is, a young village boy discovers a map marking a hidden route to the Windmill. The Riverside Scholars is one of many steps along the path to the Windmill. 2,769 parts, five minifigures, 2 stickers. Price: $199.99
Even though all of these models are quite large and expensive, I’m certain that they will all get crowdfunded easily. Once funded, LEGO will produce the sets in their own factories, and orders will be ready to ship around July of this year. (Actual dates and shipping times may vary.)
What do you think? How do you like this series of the BrickLink Designer Program? Are you planning to get any of the sets? Feel free to share and discuss in the comment section below!
And you might also like to check out the following related posts:
- BrickLink Designer Program Series 6 Sets Announced
- BrickLink Designer Program Sets for Pre-Order & More!
- LEGO BrickLink Designer Program Snack Shack Review
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – 1950s Diner
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – Modular LEGO Store
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – Aquarium
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – Fishing Boat
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – Castle in the Forest
- Brick Breakdown: LEGO BrickLink Set – Sheriff’s Safe
Two sets that are decidedly medieval, one that is essentially medieval as well, and two steam vehicles circa the late 19th century. Lego has been underserving “historical era” type themes as of late, and their recurrent popularity in the Bricklink designer program shows it. Although, none of the sets are even close to half of the “sold out” point yet, so maybe the “steam” is running out on that demand. (Or maybe the increased the quota available, which would be great.)
I think the prices are deterring people. All five sets are very expensive this time. In previous series there was at least one or two more affordable sets.
Guys, the medieval market and the encampment are almost sold out!
…. and, they are now gone…