LEGO Dinosaur Fossils seem to be turning into a delightful New Year tradition, and this year’s addition—the Triceratops Skull set—is an exciting continuation of the lineup. My childhood love for dinosaurs, sparked by the magic of Jurassic Park, makes this set feel like a gift to my younger self. As an adult, I appreciate the intricate designs and details, which make it an impressive collectible and a satisfying build.
This year’s set comes with a minifigure, a detail that sets it apart from last year’s release. The minifigure features a beautifully printed torso and a double-sided headpiece, adding extra personality to the display.
The main build consists of a base and the Triceratops skull. The base includes a sticker plaque with basic Triceratops information and an archaeological dig site with fossil pieces, a magnifying glass, and a shovel. While the dig site adds a playful excavation element, it replaces last year’s footprint feature, which might disappoint fans seeking consistency. However, the dig site can be repositioned, offering some display flexibility.
Hidden behind the skull is a fossilized mosquito, a subtle but fun Easter egg. On the right side of the base, there’s a designated spot for the minifigure, enhancing the overall display. A small rock formation on the far right supports the skull, which, despite not being fixed with additional bricks, remains surprisingly stable.
The skull itself is a standout feature, capturing the essence of a real Triceratops skull with detailed gaps, curved elements, and iconic horns. The addition of hinged jaw articulation addresses past criticisms and adds an interactive element to the model.
The build process was more complex than anticipated but highly enjoyable. It took about an hour to assemble, and one intriguing detail stood out: a ball joint at the back of the skull hints at the potential for creating a full Triceratops fossil. This detail feels like an invitation for builders to expand the set into a museum-style display.
The set, designed for builders aged 9 and up, introduces interesting techniques that can inspire creativity in younger fans. With 468 pieces and a price tag of $45, €45, or £40, the Triceratops Skull set offers excellent value as both an engaging build and an impressive display piece.
This latest addition to the LEGO Dinosaur Fossil series keeps the tradition alive, and it’s exciting to imagine what they might add next year. The Triceratops Skull is a fantastic choice for dinosaur enthusiasts and LEGO collectors alike.
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