A new LEGO designer interview has revealed the sketch models for the LEGO NINJAGO anniversary display and Land Bounty, highlighting several changes.
The new LEGO NINJAGO summer 2026 sets have just been released, including 71869 Land Bounty. Timing with the launch of this new wave, Bricks by Mind has had the chance to speak to designer Marin Stipkovic, who revealed the sketch models for both the Land Bounty and 71866 Ninja Character Anniversary Display.
Images: Bricks by Mind
Starting with the anniversary build, the designer clarifies that the model shared is not the first version of the build, but not the final iteration, either. That would explain the distinct lack of immediately noticeable differences. The few differences include the angled lantern and shorter walls.
Marin went on to explain why the lantern was changed to be much simpler in design and integration.
"It didn't make sense, it was taking up room, and it complicates the build," shared Marin regarding the modified lantern build. "You have a lot of little bits to place on the base before you get to it.
"Another thing is, I wanted the square opening that we have in the headlight brick, but because of the orientation and if it's facing the wrong way, you're looking at the ugly side, we decided to use the element with four sides the same, so you can't mess it up."
The interview continues, moving to a look at the sketch model for 71869 Land Bounty, which has far more sweeping changes.
Images: Bricks by Mind
While the final 71869 Land Bounty splits into an aircraft, a car and a bike, the sketch model proposed an aircraft, a boat and a car, with thrusters that would turn to become weapons. Another big change is the lack of suspension in the final set, which Marin also dives into.
"The thing that this model has that the final model doesn't is suspension," Marin said. "That complicated the build a lot. It was a nice gimmick, but ultimately, we felt like it wasn't necessary for how complex it made the model. Also, you lose a lot of the space to put minifigures and do other fun stuff; you're building a lot just to get suspension."
Suspension would have been an interesting feature of the new LEGO NINJAGO set, but it is ultimately lacking from the final version. Both 71866 Ninja Character Display and 71869 Land Bounty are available now while we wait for the next chapter of LEGO NINJAGO.
Featured image: Bricks by Mind
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