For past few days there are lots of excitement on collaboration between LEGO and Nintendo. Some speculated that other IP like Zelda will soon available in LEGO form after seeing Mario appeared in LEGO teaser. However, many fans weren’t aware the dark history between the two companies.

During 1968-1972, Nintendo released interlocking block toy called Nintendo Block aka N&B Block. The toy line was competing with LEGO which was popular in Japan.

Back in 60s, LEGO bricks were squarish in design, while Nintendo ones were circular and had many unique design.





Nintendo aired commercials comparing LEGO to N&B Block which showed their circular parts were fun to play compared to LEGO back then. Below are snapshot from the advertisement, in which LEGO is on the left, and Nintendo Block on the left.

In today terms, AFOL would slam Nintendo’s act as making LEGO clone or counterfeit products and look down upon. The Danish company sued Nintendo because of similarity between N&B block and their proprietary brick design. The designer in Nintendo had the foresight to use curvy design for the underside of their blocks in order to avoid potential infringement of LEGO tube patent. The design saved Nintendo from the lawsuit.

N&B was resembling LEGO bricks in many way, including engraving NB on the studs. Also they were compatible with each other, as demonstrated by beforemario.

Eventually Nintendo discontinued the toy line in 1972 with actual reason unknown. Below are some sets released in Japan.

Glad to see LEGO and Nintendo come together and bring us exciting toys to play. Whoever thought that both were crossing swords in court room 50 years ago?