LEGO Chima Theme

Launch Year: 2013

LEGO Chima, launched in 2013, introduced builders to the enchanting and mystical world of Chima. In this universe, various animal tribes vie for control of the powerful CHI energy, a source of immense power and life force. With its unique characters, detailed vehicles, and rich storyline, Chima quickly captured the imagination of younger fans and became a popular theme during its run.

The Storyline: The world of Chima is inhabited by anthropomorphic animal tribes, each with its own distinct characteristics and abilities. The central conflict revolves around the struggle for CHI, which is both a source of power and a symbol of balance. The storyline follows the adventures of characters like Laval the Lion, Cragger the Crocodile, and Eris the Eagle as they navigate alliances, betrayals, and epic battles. The narrative was expanded through an animated TV series, books, and online content, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience for fans.

LEGO Chima Iconic Sets

LEGO Set – Lion Chi Temple (2013):

The Lion Chi Temple (set number 70010) is a majestic and iconic structure in the LEGO Legends of Chima theme, serving as the central hub and stronghold for the noble Lion tribe. This impressive set features intricate details inspired by lion architecture, hidden traps and secret passages, a CHI waterfall that powers the temple, and multiple play features like a breakaway wall and a rotating platform. It captures the essence of the Chima world and provides a central location for many of the tribes’ adventures, making it a key playset for recreating scenes from the Chima animated series.

LEGO Set – The Croc Swamp Hideout (2013):

This set (set number 70014) represents the murky and treacherous lair of the Crocodile tribe, featuring swampy terrain, hidden traps, and defensive features. The Croc Swamp Hideout includes various play elements, such as a snapping crocodile mouth entrance, a hidden prison, a CHI catapult, and a detachable boat, making it a dynamic and engaging set for fans of the Chima theme. The inclusion of Cragger and Crominus minifigures allows for exciting battles and strategic gameplay within the swampy environment.

LEGO Set – Cragger’s Command Ship (2013):

Cragger’s Command Ship (set number 70006) is a formidable and imposing vehicle used by the Crocodile tribe to navigate the waterways and swamps of Chima. This large, crocodile-shaped ship features multiple play features, including firing missiles, detachable boats for scouting and pursuing enemies, a snapping crocodile jaw at the front, and a CHI-powered engine. It exemplifies the creativity and detail characteristic of LEGO Chima sets and provides an exciting platform for recreating battles and strategic maneuvers on the water.

LEGO Set – Eagle’s Edge (2013):

This set (set number 70003) depicts the aerial headquarters of the Eagle tribe, featuring a towering perch high in the mountains. Eagle’s Edge includes detailed architecture, play features like a CHI catapult and hidden weapons, and Eris’ Eagle Interceptor, providing an exciting playset for aerial battles and strategic gameplay.

LEGO Set – Sir Fangar’s Saber-Tooth Walker (2014):

This imposing set (set number 70143) introduced the formidable Sir Fangar, leader of the Ice Hunters. Sir Fangar’s Saber-Tooth Walker is a large, four-legged mech with an ice-blue color scheme, featuring movable legs, snapping jaws, and ice projectile launchers. This set added a new faction and a powerful adversary to the Chima conflict, enhancing the play and storytelling possibilities.

LEGO Chima Impact and Legacy

LEGO Chima had a significant impact on the LEGO brand by introducing a new and imaginative world that combined elements of fantasy and adventure. The theme’s unique characters and engaging storyline resonated with younger builders, fostering creativity and imaginative play. Although Chima was discontinued in 2015, its influence can still be seen in the continued popularity of animal-themed and fantasy-based LEGO sets.

In conclusion, LEGO Chima was more than just a series of building sets; it was an invitation to explore a mystical world filled with adventure, conflict, and camaraderie. Through its detailed and dynamic sets, LEGO Chima continues to inspire and captivate fans with the magic of its universe.