Sony's Astro Bot Gets an Adorable LEGO Set, But There's a Catch

Sony's beloved robot mascot is getting the LEGO treatment, and honestly, it looks fantastic. But there's a catch that's already got collectors grumbling.

Clear images of the upcoming LEGO PS1 set have been making the rounds, and the included Astro Bot mini-figure has quickly become the star of the show. This little guy is built from 276 pieces and comes with swappable eye parts, letting you switch up his expression. After seeing the details, plenty of fans are calling on LEGO to sell it separately. So far, though, that's not happening.

According to official LEGO info, the Astro Bot set (number 40899) is a gift-with-purchase (GWP) item. You can't buy it on its own. The only way to get it is by picking up the LEGO PS1 set (number 72306), which is priced at around 1,250 RMB. The Astro Bot figure comes free with that purchase on the LEGO website or in LEGO stores, while supplies last. LEGO Insiders members can grab it early starting October 1, while everyone else has to wait until October 4.

When fully assembled, the Astro Bot figure stands about 20 centimeters tall and 12 centimeters wide, with its arms spread out in a floating pose. The base features the Astro Bot logo. Both the head and arms are poseable, and it includes two sets of eye pieces so you can give it either a wide-eyed look or a squinty smile. For anyone who also picks up the LEGO PS1 set, this little robot makes a pretty great display companion.

It's a cool bonus, but the fact that you can't buy it separately is a bit of a bummer. Here's hoping LEGO changes its mind down the line. Would you pick up the PS1 set just to get this Astro Bot figure? Let us know in the comments!