LEGO 1997 / Basic / FreeStyle Sets

The Basic FreeStyle sets were part of various promotional releases that used LEGO System bricks. All these promotional sets used the FreeStyle look and feel and most came in standard polybags although a few were boxed. These promotional sets were offered from various companies including Blockbuster, Kelloggs, Jack-In-The-Box and more throughout the US and the rest of the world.

1997 LEGO Sets

In 1997, the LEGO Group faced significant challenges as it grappled with a changing toy market and internal organizational shifts. While the company introduced its first-ever licensed theme, "Star Wars," laying the groundwork for one of its most successful and enduring lines, it also experienced a dip in sales for the first time since its inception. The LEGO Group recognized the need to innovate and diversify its product offerings beyond traditional brick sets, leading to endeavors in new areas like software and video games, with the launch of LEGO Island, its first PC game. This year marked a period of introspection and transformation for the iconic toy company.