LEGO 1986 / Basic Sets

In 1986 LEGO released 27 Basic sets across 3 subthemes. The largest Basic set from 1986 was 1619 Storage Container with a piece count of 260.

The LEGO Basic theme, which began in the 1970s, was designed to be a more general, non-thematic series of sets. Unlike the themed sets that revolve around specific stories, characters, or concepts (e.g., space, city, or pirates), the Basic theme provided a collection of standard LEGO bricks and pieces, often in a variety of colors. The goal was to encourage free building and creativity without the confines of a specific theme or narrative.

1986 LEGO Sets

In 1986, LEGO's legacy of innovation and adaptability continued to flourish. This year was particularly notable for the introduction of the LEGO Technic theme, a departure from traditional brick-based sets. Technic offered a more complex building experience, introducing specialized pieces like gears, pins, and beams to enable the creation of intricate mechanical models with moving parts. This new line catered to older children and enthusiasts who sought more advanced building challenges. The Technic sets represented not just vehicles and machinery but the underlying principles of engineering and mechanics.