After a leak only a few weeks ago, 21344 The Orient Express Train is getting ever closer to its new release date. The 18+ set was originally supposed to be revealed on the 4th of October 2023 with a release on the 1st of November 2023. However, this didn't come to fruition and instead, the final LEGO Ideas set of the year will release on 1st December 2023.
The seventh and final LEGO Ideas set of 2023 will be a brick-built version of the Orient Express first submitted by LEt.sGo. Trains and LEGO aren't often seen but this may finally be the start of a brand new range of sets once it releases on in just over a months time for $299.99. Our last LEGO train display set released all the way back in 2020 with 10277 Crocodile Locomotive.
The brand new LEGO Ideas train set will include a total of 2,540 pieces which may sound like a lot but it is actually 455 pieces fewer than the original fan submission. This had a total of 2,995 pieces but as we can see from the leaked images, LEGO has gone a different route for the train and made it more old school rather than the original more modern submission. This is especially seen in the change of colour scheme to blue.
Another change is the increase in passenger cars for the train. Along with the engine car, we now have two passenger cars at the back with fully detailed interiors. This is perfect for the eight Minifigures included to sit back and relax whilst also being able to look out the wind on their journey and grab a drink or two from the bar. There's even a toilet, a comfy sofa, a LEGO typewriter and a cosy bed.
And finally, this grand LEGO train is topped off with a track display stand making it a more display-worthy model than previous LEGO trains. However, no motorized elements are included but these can be easily added if you wish and have allowed LEGO to keep that price tag as $299.99 for 2,540 pieces. 1st December 2023 is the new release date so we can expect an official reveal any day now...
Set Information
Set Name - The Orient Express Train
Set Number - 21341
Ages - 18+
Piece Count - 2,540
Price - $299.99
Release Date - 1st December 2023
If that is a delay, may be they could make the French steam engine instead. At lease be true to the original design.